An hour after shift at the office somewhere in July. I was finishing the remaining task I have for the day when my boss mentioned the lowest airfare from AirAsia. I checked the website right away to see what destination offers the lowest. I found several places but decided to book a return flight to Boracay for one person. September 15-17 2012 was the selected travel date which is in two months from that day.
Two days before the flight I was already preparing my stuff. I checked my digital camera and to my disappointment it was broken. So I had no choice but to buy a new one otherwise I'll be traveling with no way to capture the beauty of the place I'll be visiting. (though I have my camera phone, I still thought it'd be nice to capture it with a real camera. hehe.)
September 14, I was already on leave from work since my shift always start at 11PM and working half day before traveling is not an option. I started my adventure at 2AM on September 15. I got my backpack and other stuff needed for my 3day trip. My newly bought camera hangs on my neck. I wave for a taxi and headed to Dagupan bus station. I arrived at the terminal in about 30mins. Checking the printed travel guide I got from the Internet, I have another 30mins before the bus leaves. The bus is scheduled to departure from the terminal at 3AM. So I busied myself in watching MIB2 which was already playing the moment I step on the bus. It was a good destruction from the two teenagers making out in front of me. I had to roll my eyes. Geez! Get a room!
I waited for the bus conductor to collect the payment then I decided to sleep. I definitely need the energy for this adventure. I woke up just before we reached the toll gate to Dau Pampanga. I checked my guide again. More or less ten minutes to Dau bus terminal where I could get a ride to Clark Airport.
We arrived at the terminal in no time. I saw a Jollibee food house where I should find jeeps going to the airport. The jeep leaves as soon as there's enough passengers which I heard is 5-8 people. There was one passenger who's already inside so I climbed up the jeep and occupied one area. The man commented on how long it would take before the jeep leaves. I had no choice but to talk to him too. Then I found out, he was bound for Davao.
I was people-watching on the pre-depature lounge while waiting for my boarding time. It was 6:45AM when the gate opened and we were led to the airport bus that would take us through the tarmac and to the plane. Exactly 7AM when we went airborne. The expected time of arrival was an hour after we left DMIA. We arrived 10mins early in Kalibo International Airport. I did not arrange for any pick up from the airport to the hotel so as soon as I was out of the baggage area I started texting my contact from the hotel where I'll be staying. The lady I talked to was very accommodating and she was able to include me on the list of people that will be serviced by Island Star Express. I was pretty impressed by how the guides assisted us from the airport all the way to the resort. The driver even agreed to pass by a grocery store where we can pick up some necessity for the island stay. I was with a couple from Pampanga and 3 cousins from Novaliches. They have the same reaction when they found out that I am traveling and spending 2 nights in the island alone.
It was about an hour drive from Kalibo to Jetty Port. The sky was crying when we arrived at the port and the rain did not allow me to take pictures of the sea because the boat side was covered with tarp to avoid passengers from getting wet due to the rain fall. It was a short ride of 5mins and we arrived in Boracay Island. (They said it was the back side of the island since it was the Habagat Season). The man from Island Star Express guided me through and through until I reached Bonzai Beach Resort at the back of Villa De Oro which was located in the beach front. Bonzai Beach Resort was small but descent. I was very particular with the room that I'll be living in for three days so i asked Ate Arlyn if I could see all the rooms so I can choose where to stay. She gladly showed me all the available room types they have. I finally settled with the most comfortable room I found, room C. It is just beside the little office or what they call the reception area. Since it is the rainy season, only three rooms were occupied. One upstairs, the room B in the front side of the vicinity and my room.
I enjoyed taking pictures as I walk along the shore. When I found a great spot to stay and enjoy looking at the ocean, I stayed there for quite a moment and decided to head back when the rain started to pour. I stayed in front of Astoria Resort while the wind and the rain is raging like there's no tomorrow, but I enjoyed the surroundings anyway.
About 30mins when the rain stopped and I decided to go get some breakfast. I looks nice and cozy to eat at Villa De Oro's restaurant so I ordered boneless bangus with eggs, juice and some fruits.
The package I got was 30mins in the water with my video in a CD and pictures under water. These are all ready after I finished diving. As I waited for the boat to pick me up and bring me again to shore, a strong wind blows followed by slicing drops of rain. Same time as the small boat with Japanese passengers approached the flat form. To our surprise the boat was blown away by the strong wind and eventually turned upside down. All the men were hustling to save the passengers on that boat. Luckily no one drowned. Everyone were safe. After 5mins, the rain stopped and the sun was shining bright again. It was the craziest weather ever.I was not really able to explore the other side of the island since it was raining. So after helmet diving, I went back to my room to rinse and grab some lunch. Since I can not go on island hopping due to the ever changing weather, I decided to go look for more souvenirs and went from one shop to another.
About 5PM when I decided to rest and get ready for a night of partying! Boracay is famous for night parties and all. I choose what to wear and waited for 10PM to come. With my beach dress and my braided hair, I went out. Everyone outside were busy. Folks selling fresh seafood can be found every where. Customized shirts are also available. What caught my attention was the fire dance performace. The team of fire dancer performed astoundingly for their audiences.
The next morning was great. It's my last day and about to depart in the afternoon. I woke up with happy thoughts. I took a bath, got dressed and walked on the shore for the last time. The souvenirs I baught the previous day was not enough so I went for another trip to D'Mall to find stuff I can give to people back home.
Ate Arlyn told me that Island Star will be picking me up by 12noon. It's an hour drive back to Kalibo Airport so we need to leave early. I packed my bag and all the things I baught and waited for someone to pick me up. It was 12:15PM when the personel from Island Star arrived. I was happy to see that the sun is up and I can appreciate the view while on board the boat that'll bring us to Jetty Port.
Taxi from Eastwood to Dau terminal - 110 pesos
Dagupan Bus to Dau terminal - 130 pesos
Tricycle to DMIA Jeeps - 50 pesos
Jeep to DMIA Departure Area - 150 pesos
DMIA Terminal Fee - 40 pesos
Round Trip Plane Ticket from AirAsia - 719.04 pesos
Island Star Express Round trip - 800 pesos
Bonzai Resort 2 Nights Accommodation - 1600 pesos
Food and Beverages Total - 2300
Helmet Diving - 600
Souvenirs - 2500
Kalibo Terminal Fee - 40 pesos
DMIA to Dau Terminal - 50 pesos
Dau Terminal to Cubao - 130 pesos
Taxi to Eastwood - 110 pesos
Two days before the flight I was already preparing my stuff. I checked my digital camera and to my disappointment it was broken. So I had no choice but to buy a new one otherwise I'll be traveling with no way to capture the beauty of the place I'll be visiting. (though I have my camera phone, I still thought it'd be nice to capture it with a real camera. hehe.)
September 14, I was already on leave from work since my shift always start at 11PM and working half day before traveling is not an option. I started my adventure at 2AM on September 15. I got my backpack and other stuff needed for my 3day trip. My newly bought camera hangs on my neck. I wave for a taxi and headed to Dagupan bus station. I arrived at the terminal in about 30mins. Checking the printed travel guide I got from the Internet, I have another 30mins before the bus leaves. The bus is scheduled to departure from the terminal at 3AM. So I busied myself in watching MIB2 which was already playing the moment I step on the bus. It was a good destruction from the two teenagers making out in front of me. I had to roll my eyes. Geez! Get a room!
I waited for the bus conductor to collect the payment then I decided to sleep. I definitely need the energy for this adventure. I woke up just before we reached the toll gate to Dau Pampanga. I checked my guide again. More or less ten minutes to Dau bus terminal where I could get a ride to Clark Airport.
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| This was written on the jeepney's body. |
We arrived at the terminal in no time. I saw a Jollibee food house where I should find jeeps going to the airport. The jeep leaves as soon as there's enough passengers which I heard is 5-8 people. There was one passenger who's already inside so I climbed up the jeep and occupied one area. The man commented on how long it would take before the jeep leaves. I had no choice but to talk to him too. Then I found out, he was bound for Davao.
To no avail, we waited long enough for us to decide and find a different way to the airport. The guy I was talking to asked the lady vendor about other transportation options going to Clark Airport. I decided to come with him since I felt that it'd take too long for the jeep to leave. We started walking towards the main high-way. Along the way we passed by two tricycle drivers and asked for directions. They offered to bring us to where the other jeepney terminal is. These jeepneys travel directly to the departure area of the airport. There is an easy way to get to the Diosdado Macapagal International Airport if it weren't too early in the morning. (Lakas ng Trip) Since I don't have enough change to pay for my share, the man volunteered to pay the whole amount.
There were several jeepneys parked bound to DMIA and one man approached us and offer to take us to the departure area for 250 pesos. Good thing there was another passenger whom we can share the fare. In less than three minutes, we were on the road.
It took us 20mins to get to the airport. It was an hour and a half before my flight departs. I entered the departure area with my printed e-ticket and ID. Looking around, I saw three AirAsia kiosk and since I didn't have any baggage to check in I decided to use it which was quick and easy. I had my boarding pass in less than a minute.
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| I know... =) Sugar rush for three days! |
It was about an hour drive from Kalibo to Jetty Port. The sky was crying when we arrived at the port and the rain did not allow me to take pictures of the sea because the boat side was covered with tarp to avoid passengers from getting wet due to the rain fall. It was a short ride of 5mins and we arrived in Boracay Island. (They said it was the back side of the island since it was the Habagat Season). The man from Island Star Express guided me through and through until I reached Bonzai Beach Resort at the back of Villa De Oro which was located in the beach front. Bonzai Beach Resort was small but descent. I was very particular with the room that I'll be living in for three days so i asked Ate Arlyn if I could see all the rooms so I can choose where to stay. She gladly showed me all the available room types they have. I finally settled with the most comfortable room I found, room C. It is just beside the little office or what they call the reception area. Since it is the rainy season, only three rooms were occupied. One upstairs, the room B in the front side of the vicinity and my room. |
| Room C |
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| My bed for two nights. |
I was starving when I finally finished unpacking and making sure my stuff are out of my back pack. I decided to find a place to eat. So I picked up my phone, camera and wallet then went my way out of the resort.
Several people approached me when I was out of Villa De Oro. They were offering things like souvenirs and island activities.
The wind was furiously blowing because of the Monsoon season. I started walking along the shore and notice that there's a lot of stores and establishments around. People would bump at each other and things like key chain, jewelries made buy locals, fresh sea foods and swim wears are being sold all over place. I walked and walked until I totally forgot I was starving. I found a store that sells cheap souvenirs so I started shopping. I got several stuff for my folks back home. After an hour I started feeling the hunger again.
I finally looked for a place to eat and settled at a restaurant called I Love Backyard Barbecue. Got myself a steak and a soda plus one extra rice and I am all full and sleepy.
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| Backyard Barbecue |
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| Boracay Key Chains |
I find my way back to my resort and freshen up before taking a nap. I planned to sleep for 3 hours before going out to party. Due to the long travel time, the original 3 hours became 5! I woke up hearing the rain outside. It was 1AM and I was pissed because I can no longer go out to party. I suited myself in watching movie until 5AM when the rain stopped. I heard foot steps outside so I decided to take a peek and see if it was safe for me to go out. It was dark. I waited another hour before I went out.
First thing I saw when I went out was the big waves splashing the shore and the famous Boracay sand castle. I took the liberty to appreciate it and ask Kuya Rick to take photos of me. He also offered services like island hopping, helmet diving and other water sports. Since I was alone, I didn't really have so many options so I thought about helmet diving. I agreed to have it around 10AM so I have time to enjoy the shore and the powdery sand of Boracay.
I enjoyed taking pictures as I walk along the shore. When I found a great spot to stay and enjoy looking at the ocean, I stayed there for quite a moment and decided to head back when the rain started to pour. I stayed in front of Astoria Resort while the wind and the rain is raging like there's no tomorrow, but I enjoyed the surroundings anyway.
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| Boracay Sand Castle |
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| Haven |
About 30mins when the rain stopped and I decided to go get some breakfast. I looks nice and cozy to eat at Villa De Oro's restaurant so I ordered boneless bangus with eggs, juice and some fruits.
Fully charged and feeling energetic, I went back to check with Ate Lyn if they are offering services like the ones I was offered by Kuya Rick. Fortunately, they also know Kuya Rick and said he is recommended by Bonzai Resort for these types of activities. It was around 11AM when Kuya Rick picked me up to go to the other side of the island where water sports are done during the monsoon season.
When we got to the other side of the island, it was all sunny and bright. I was brought by a small boat to the flat form where I will have my orientation before helmet diving. There, I met the cool folks of Shingley Aqua Sports. They've given me instructions on what to do and what not to do when I go helmet diving. After a brief discussion, I started my cool adventure.
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| Shingley Aqua Sports |
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| Feeding the fishes |
About 5PM when I decided to rest and get ready for a night of partying! Boracay is famous for night parties and all. I choose what to wear and waited for 10PM to come. With my beach dress and my braided hair, I went out. Everyone outside were busy. Folks selling fresh seafood can be found every where. Customized shirts are also available. What caught my attention was the fire dance performace. The team of fire dancer performed astoundingly for their audiences.
It was quite a night. I wanted to dance and go to a bar but I guess I'm not ready to party alone so what I did was go to Villa De Oro, ordered one piñacolada. Then one glass became two and then three..Hehehe. I know how to enjoy myself so I was happy drinking alone. But of course, I am only human so after 3 tall glasses of piñacolada and almost 2hours of people watching, I got tipsy and hungry. I ordered food and decided to eat inside my room. (One way to avoid crazy things I can do with alcohol in my system. Skinny dipping would be a disaster!)
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| More more seafood! |
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| Pinacolada |
The next morning was great. It's my last day and about to depart in the afternoon. I woke up with happy thoughts. I took a bath, got dressed and walked on the shore for the last time. The souvenirs I baught the previous day was not enough so I went for another trip to D'Mall to find stuff I can give to people back home.
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| Pasalubong |
Ate Arlyn told me that Island Star will be picking me up by 12noon. It's an hour drive back to Kalibo Airport so we need to leave early. I packed my bag and all the things I baught and waited for someone to pick me up. It was 12:15PM when the personel from Island Star arrived. I was happy to see that the sun is up and I can appreciate the view while on board the boat that'll bring us to Jetty Port.
The van was waiting for us when we get to Jetty port. There were 4 of us that'll travel back to Kalibo. The three others were friends from Cebu. They will stay in Kalibo for one more night before going back home. I enjoyed sight seeing on our way to the airpot.
When I got there, I went straight inside the airport to check in but the counter is still close for another 45mins. I went out and grab something to eat. I craved for hot soup so I ordered Batchoy and Buko-Apple milkshake. I was the best! It would be nice if these types of foods can be easily found in Manila.
An hour of eating all of it and I was ready to check in. I went inside the airport again and gald to see the ground crews of Air Asia on their desk. I checked in and got my boarding pass then went straight to the pre-departure area. It was raining in Manila from what I heard from the airport guys. This going to be a bumpy ride, I told myself.
ETA in Clark is 6:00PM. I was nervous the entire time because the rain hasn't stop. With the Lords guidance, we arrived in Clark Airport safe and sound. From there I took the jeepney going to Dau terminal where I will ride the bus going back to Cubao. I am scheduled to work that night so I was hopping I could get to Eastwood on time. And I did! I arrived 30mins early for work.
Total Expenses: 9,329.04 pesos
When I got there, I went straight inside the airport to check in but the counter is still close for another 45mins. I went out and grab something to eat. I craved for hot soup so I ordered Batchoy and Buko-Apple milkshake. I was the best! It would be nice if these types of foods can be easily found in Manila.  |
| Apple-Buko Shake and Batchoy |
ETA in Clark is 6:00PM. I was nervous the entire time because the rain hasn't stop. With the Lords guidance, we arrived in Clark Airport safe and sound. From there I took the jeepney going to Dau terminal where I will ride the bus going back to Cubao. I am scheduled to work that night so I was hopping I could get to Eastwood on time. And I did! I arrived 30mins early for work.
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| Arriving DMIA |
While I was on the bus staring out the window, I had the chance to reflect on what happened on my 3days 2 nights stay in Boracay. I thought, this is the best solo trip ever! Hahaha. And I'm doing it again! To where? I don't really know! =)
Total Expenses: 9,329.04 pesos
Taxi from Eastwood to Dau terminal - 110 pesosDagupan Bus to Dau terminal - 130 pesos
Tricycle to DMIA Jeeps - 50 pesos
Jeep to DMIA Departure Area - 150 pesos
DMIA Terminal Fee - 40 pesos
Round Trip Plane Ticket from AirAsia - 719.04 pesos
Island Star Express Round trip - 800 pesos
Bonzai Resort 2 Nights Accommodation - 1600 pesos
Food and Beverages Total - 2300
Helmet Diving - 600
Souvenirs - 2500
Kalibo Terminal Fee - 40 pesos
DMIA to Dau Terminal - 50 pesos
Dau Terminal to Cubao - 130 pesos
Taxi to Eastwood - 110 pesos
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